Rhode Island Osprey Nesting Success Dropped in 2026
The success rate for monitored osprey nests across the state fell to 38 percent during the 2026 summer season.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Bird Watching
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Data from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island shows a sharp decline in osprey nesting success, which fell to 38 percent in 2026 from 70 percent the previous year. Researchers are now investigating potential causes for the trend, including shifts in local food availability.
Why it matters
Understanding the cause of these nesting failures is vital for maintaining the local raptor population after decades of successful recovery efforts. Monitoring efforts help identify if environmental or competitive factors are threatening the long-term stability of the species in the region.
The Audubon Society of Rhode Island tracked 339 total nests throughout the 2026 season. Nest success, defined by the survival of young, reached only 38 percent compared to the 70 percent success rate recorded in 2025.
The players
Audubon Society of Rhode Island
This environmental organization is responsible for monitoring and protecting avian species and their habitats throughout the state.
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
This interstate agency coordinates the management of coastal fishery resources along the Atlantic coast.
Andy Soutter
He is an experienced field researcher who has contributed to 36 years of osprey monitoring efforts.
The details
Volunteers and researchers utilize nest cameras and manual site observations to track egg counts and fledgling health across the state. One notable failure occurred at the Marsh Meadows Wildlife Refuge in Jamestown, marking the first time that specific platform failed since becoming active in 2006.
Timeline
The 2006 season marked the beginning of activity for the Marsh Meadows osprey platform.
A fledgling was found struggling on Little Island in July 2026.
The 2026 nesting success rate was 38 percent, down from 70 percent in 2025.
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is scheduled to meet in November 2026.
Roadmap
The current nesting decline marks a potential reversal in the steady recovery trend that began following the 1970s ban on DDT pesticides. This shift suggests that regional raptor populations now face new stressors distinct from historical chemical threats.
Residents living near wildlife refuges may notice increased activity from volunteer monitors who are expanding their efforts to track foraging and nesting health. These observational programs rely on community support to help report sightings and protect local habitats during the upcoming season.
The takeaway
The recent drop in nesting success serves as a critical indicator that environmental conditions in Narragansett Bay may be changing. Enthusiasts and residents can support conservation efforts by respecting marked refuge areas and providing space for birds to forage undisturbed.
What happens next
Researchers are scheduled to participate in an Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission meeting in November 2026 to discuss fishery resources, and they plan to expand nest camera deployments and begin foraging behavior studies in 2027.
Further reading
For more information on regional avian research, visit the Bird Watching section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EastBayRI.
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